CLOSEMINDED SCIENCE

Examining the negative aspects of the social dynamics of science.

Skepticism is a primary tool of science. We'd be hypocrites if we never
directed a skeptical eye towards Scientific Skepticism
itself. Denied imperfections and errors are
free to grow without limit, and Skepticism is not immune to this problem.
Unbridled gullibility can destroy science, but unbridled disbelief is no
less a threat because it brings both a tolerance for bias and ridicule
as well as the supression of untested new ideas. Better to take a
middle road between total closed-mindedness and total gullibility.
Practice pragmatism, pursue humility, and maintain a clear, honest, and
continuing view of ourselves and the less noble of our own
behaviors.

"We do not believe any group of men adequate enough or wise enough to
operate without scrutiny or without criticism. We know that the only way
to
avoid error is to detect it, that the only way to detect it is to be free
to inquire." - J. Robert Oppenheimer

Dishonest Argument

If you've ever conversed with a closeminded person, you are aware how
difficult it is to get your point across and to maintain your cool. You
might not realize it, but there are good reasons for this. While some
people seem like scientists and genuinely want to know the truth, others
seem like bad politicians and lawyers: dishonest truth-hiders whose
only goal is
to defend and persuade. Below are some of their tactics. Once you're
familiar with these ploys, you can fight against them (or at least not let
them drive you crazy!)